Quality Control Evaluation of Varuna (<i>Crataeva nurvala</i> Buch.-Ham.) Leaves Through Pharmacognostic Parameters and HPTLC Analysis with a Quercetin Marker

Abstract

Background: Varuna (Crataeva nurvala Buch.-Ham.) is a widely used medicinal plant in Ayurveda and is valued for its effectiveness in treating urinary tract and inflammatory conditions. To ensure the authenticity, safety, and therapeutic efficacy of herbal drugs, standardized quality control parameters are essential. Objectives: This study was conducted to assess the pharmacognostical features, physicochemical properties, preliminary phytochemical constituents, and HPTLC fingerprint profile of Varuna leaves, using quercetin as the reference marker. Methods: Authenticated plant material was examined macroscopically and microscopically, followed by physicochemical analysis according to WHO guidelines, including ash values, extractive value, loss on drying, foreign matter, and pH. The methanolic extract was subjected to quantitative phytochemical screening to identify major constituents. HPTLC profiling was performed using toluene:ethyl acetate (7:3) as the mobile phase, with scanning at 254 nm and 366 nm. The fingerprint showed multiple peaks with Rf values similar to those of quercetin, indicating the possible presence of flavonoids. Results: Preliminary microscopy revealed characteristic features such as spiral xylem vessels, fibers, crystals, and trichomes. Physicochemical parameters were within acceptable limits, reflecting the good quality of the plant material. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, proteins, steroids, and saponins. Furthermore, HPTLC fingerprinting showed multiple peaks with Rf values comparable to those of the quercetin marker, suggesting the possible presence of flavonoid-like compounds. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and phytochemical reference data for Varuna leaves and presents a qualitative HPTLC fingerprint profile that may support future pharmacognostic and phytochemical research.